Hikes around Hanalei offer trails of varying lengths and elevations, rugged paths, waterfalls, a natural island setting and photo opportunities on the North Shore of Kauai. We each walk at some point in our daily routines, but when you’re on vacation, there’s something about the new observations you’ll make—in Hanalei, it might be a native flower, the expanse of the ocean against a striking blue sky, a sea cliff, mountains in your realm and waterfalls singing the sounds of nature. Regardless of your level of skill, stamina or spirit of adventure, you’ll find scenic paths you must explore, if only for the bragging rights.
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Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most well-known among hikers and travelers. You can hike as little or as much as you’d like, just make sure you dress ready to walk and pack your essentials in a backpack (water, snacks, sunblock, etc.). The first two miles lead to Hanakapiai Beach and beyond that, it’s campers only. The rust-hued soil alongside the deep greens alone make for a great hike. A bright, clear day with clouds floating by will make you feel as if you’ve tackled great heights, and with this trail, you have.
Awa’awapuhi Trail
The explorer will revel in the Awa’awapuhi Trail, a strenuous hike. Trek a grassy terrain for views of Awaawapuhi and Nualolo Valleys from a rewarding height. Rainforest setting, a hike that’s tougher on the return trip, 2000’ elevation, and an option to continue to another nine miles on the Nualolo Trail are all facets of a winner’s walk.
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Hanalei Bay
Not all incredible hikes are at great heights and require athletic fortitude. Two-mile Hanalei Bay, from Kolokolo Point to Puu Poa Point is a good activity as a family or couple. The crescent-shaped bay area, white sand perfection and a ton of blue hues as the water deepens all create an idyllic island experience. Hideaway’s Beach offers a brief hike from Pali Ke Kua with a view of cliffs, forest and sea.
Follow Hanalei Bay for another pleasant beach hike toward Waioli Stream. Start at Black Pot Beach for this almost three-mile walk filled with the elements of scenery perfect to capture on filme—swaying trees, mountainous backdrop, jagged cliffs of earthy textures and the central icon, the bay itself.
Kee Beach to Haena Beach
A walk with lava cliffs, native trees, the sparkling bay waters. Pack a picnic and consider continuing to Tunnels Beach is for a remote walk that is lengthy but not overexerting.
Also, please consider our nearby Haena vacation rentals.
Okolehau Trail
The Okolehau Trail, for more experienced hikers, begins at the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge and reaches an elevation of 1,200 feet in the Halele’a Forest Reserve. The wildlife refuge is home to five endangered birds (Hawaiian duck, coot, moorhen, stilt and goose) that consider Hanalei Valley a source for nesting and feeding.
Powerline Trail
Powerline Trail is one for adventurers, 13 miles from Princeville to Keahua Arboretum. It’s a big messy—mud, dirt and a primitive ambiance. Some of the viewpoints are worth the trip and other parts of the hike are simply grassy areas.
Check out our Princeville vacation rentals located nearby Queen’s Bath.
Queen’s Bath
The reward for the trail to Queen’s Bath is the pool itself, naturally formed in a lava shelf. It is a remote path, with native trees and a waterfall. It’s a small hike, but one that can be eventful if you’re not prepared. See the mountains and the sea from the lava pool.